ATR’s shareholders Airbus Group and Leonardo-Finmeccanica have appointed Christian Scherer (54), as Chief Executive Officer of ATR. He succeeds Patrick de Castelbajac, who will become Company Secretary and Chief of Staff as well as member of the Executive Committee of Airbus. The transition will become effective on November 1, 2016.

ATR’s shareholders confirmed that Christian Scherer will run the company for a four-year term in order to ensure stability and continuity as the company continues its growth. Giovanni Tramparulo, current CFO of ATR, has also been renewed for four years.

Christian Scherer is currently Executive Vice-President and Head of Airbus Group International. Prior to this, he was the Head of Marketing & Sales at Airbus Defence and Space. He also served as a Member of the Airbus Defence and Space Executive Committee and as Managing Director of Airbus Defence and Space GmbH. He started his career at Airbus in 1984 and ultimately held several senior positions including Deputy Head of Sales and Head of Strategy and Future Programs.

Tom Enders, Chief Executive Officer of Airbus Group, said: “Christian Scherer demonstrates a tremendous amount of commercial expertise, strategic vision and management skills. He is the perfect choice to succeed Patrick de Castelbajac, whom I’d like to thank for a job well done at the helm of ATR. Christian’s appointment for four years underscores the commitment of Airbus Group to the success of our joint venture with Leonardo.”

Mauro Moretti, Chief Executive Officer and General Manager of Leonardo-Finmeccanica, stated: “We warmly welcome Christian Scherer, who brings a proven track record in commercial aviation. With his nomination, we wish to continue strengthening ATR’s market-leading position.”

Christian Scherer added: “I’m thrilled to be appointed CEO of the top brand in regional aviation. I value the exceptional family spirit and the proximity with ATR customers. I grew up within a similar culture and hope to perpetuate it at ATR to benefit customers, employees and shareholders.”